As the end of the Holy Month nears and we usher in the celebratory period of Eid al-Fitr, many of us seek a brief, yet enriching escape from the hum-drum of every day life.

Fortunately for those of us searching for a getaway that is ideal for the extended Eid al-Fitr holiday, Saudi's prominent location, straddling direct routes to both Asia and Europe, there are numerous compelling destinations that lie within a convenient five-hour, direct flight from Saudi Arabia, offering diverse experiences tailored to various interests.

And whether you're not a fan of flights that are too long, or you're travelling with children and family, these exciting destinations make for great options for a luxurious Eid escape: from tranquil island escapes to culturally rich cities, these getaways provide a welcome change of pace during the festive period.

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Athens, Greece

Best for those seeking a rich cultural experience in Europe

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Flight Time: From Riyadh 4 hours 35 mins
Direct Flights? Yes

STAY: Offering a blend of classic elegance and modern luxury, the King George, a Luxury Collection Hotel is home to a Penthouse Suite with a private outdoor pool overlooking the fabled Acropolis.

Athens is a city where ancient history collides with modern vibrancy, offers a captivating holiday experience. Dominated by the iconic Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the city invites exploration of its historical treasures, from the Agora to the Temple of Olympian Zeus. Beyond the archaeological wonders, Athens boasts a thriving cultural scene, with contemporary art galleries, bustling markets, and a lively nightlife. The city's dining landscape is equally diverse, offering traditional Greek tavernas alongside fine-dining experiences with views of the Acropolis, and a selection of innovative restaurants. With its blend of historical significance, cultural richness, and Mediterranean charm, Athens provides an unforgettable holiday for travellers seeking both exploration and relaxation.

@kinggeorgeathens

Dehli, India

Best for those seeking a vibrant and immersive cultural experience

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Flight Time: From Riyadh 4 hours 30 mins. From Jeddah 5 hours 30 mins.
Direct Flights? Yes

STAY: Found close to the airport on 8 acres of verdant private, green lands, The Roseate New Delhi offers guests a serene and luxurious retreat, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The award-winning hotel showcases contemporary design against natural elements to create an oasis of tranquility

The vibrant Indian capital of Delhi invites visitors to experience the vibrant tapestry of the nation, making it a compelling vacation destination. This historic city seamlessly blends ancient Mughal architecture with modern urban life, presenting iconic landmarks like the Red Fort, Qutub Minar, and Humayun's Tomb. With international renowned and must-see architectural marvels like Jaipur's Pink City and Agra's Taj Mahal, within close proximity of the capital, the cultural experience of India is far reaching and easily accessible by car. Beyond the historical attractions, Delhi's cultural landscape is diverse, with numerous museums, art galleries, and performance venues, ensuring a dynamic and unforgettable vacation for all types of travellers.

@theroseate

Nairobi, Kenya

Best for those seeking an immersive wildlife experience and outdoor adventure

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Flight Time: From Jeddah 4 hours.
Direct Flights? Yes

STAY: Giraffe Manor is one of the most famous luxury hotels in Nairobi, the ivy-strewn manor house is set in 12 acres of private land within 140 acres of indigenous forest, and it is here where giant Rothschild giraffes gracefully join guests for breakfast and afternoon tea, peering through the windows for a close encounter. This iconic manor blends elegant accommodations with a remarkable wildlife experience, making it a sought-after destination for those seeking a truly extraordinary safari adventure.

A compelling blend of urban energy and natural wonder, Nairobi is regularly overlooked as a vacation destination. Often referred to as the "Safari Capital of Africa," it offers the extraordinary experience of Nairobi National Park, where wildlife roams against the backdrop of the city skyline. Beyond the safaris, visitors can immerse themselves in Kenyan culture at the Bomas of Kenya, explore historical sites like the Karen Blixen Museum, and encounter giraffes up close at the Giraffe Manor. The city's vibrant arts scene, diverse culinary offerings, and bustling markets add to its allure, providing a dynamic and multifaceted travel experience.

@thegiraffemanor

Tbilisi, Georgia

Best for those looking for a burgeoning food scene in a new destination

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Flight Time: From Riyadh 3 hours 10 mins. From Jeddah 4 hours.
Direct Flight? Yes

STAY: The House Hotel in Old Tbilisi perfectly embodies the city’s fusion of new and old. Cool, contemporary rooms nod to Georgian heritage with traditional custom-made murals, while the restaurant sources its stellar produce from local farmers.

Famed for its thermal baths, warm people, and postcard-pretty Old Town, Tbilisi makes for a photogenic, soul-nourishing escape. Built along the Kura (Mtkvari) River with a dramatic mountainous backdrop, the capital’s pre-Soviet medieval buildings stagger down the hillside in fairy tale fashion, while towers and turrets keep watch over a bustling cultural labyrinth below.

While the past seemingly holds sway, the neighbourhood is the epicentre of Tbilisi’s hipster scene, where original design and food take centre stage. Georgia’s melting pot of cuisines (subject to the ebb and flow of empires throughout the centuries) can be savoured in its most authentic form at a string of rustic eateries such as Zodiaqo and Pasanauri. Dumplings and khachapuri (a cheese-filled bread, often with an egg) are a must-try. For a modern twist on traditional dishes, dive into Tbilisi’s thriving foodie scene, where restaurants such as Unfound Door (try the chvishtari) and swishy OtsY (a knockout finedining spot beside the Gabriadze Theatre) are reimagining Georgian classics. And no trip to Tbilisi is complete without a long lunch at the quirky-cool Café Stamba, where both locals and visitors convene over adjaruli khachapuri and cockle-warming chicken soups, mopped up with freshly baked bread.

@thehousehotelgeorgia

Istanbul, Turkey

Best for sea-side, boho coffee culture

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Flight Time: From Riyadh 4 hours 30 mins. From Jeddah 4 hours.
Direct Flight? Yes

STAY: Wyndham Grand Istanbul Kalamış Marina Hotel’s interiors are a lavish launchpad to explore the neighbourhood from, even though a seriously luxurious stay may feel out of step with Kadiköy’s bohemian rhythm. The hotel offers smart digs to wake up in after diving into Moda’s edgy music scene.

Travellers who may have mentally “ticked off” Istanbul city are well-placed to visit nearby Kadiköy and experience a less touristy side to the city. This burgeoning district (particularly the Moda neighbourhood) is charged with a cool, bohemian energy worth crossing the mighty Bosphorus for. Colourful streets are lined with new-age coffee shops, alfresco cafés overlooking the Marmara Sea, and understated spots that spontaneously lift with the odd DJ set. Once a relatively quiet, residential patch of Istanbul, Kadiköy seemed an unlikely contender for the city’s liberal epicentre.

@wyndhamgrandkalamis